Key Findings:

In 2024, there were (293) accidental drug deaths in New Orleans, a 44% decrease, compared to (523) in 2023.

In 2024, (228) 78% were male, and (65) 22% were female.

In 2023, (395) 75% were male, and (129) 25% were female.

In 2024, (190) 65% were black, (94) 32% were white, (6) 2% were hispanic, and (2) 1% were asian.

In 2023, (299) 57% were black, (187) 35% were white, (26) 5% were hispanic, (3) 1% were asian, and (9) 2% were other/unknown.

As is typical, toxicological analysis in most drug-related deaths revealed the presence of multiple drugs.

Of the (252) cases for which we have toxicology results:

In 2024, (178) 71% tested positive for fentanyl.

In 2023, (414) 86% tested positive for fentanyl.

In 2024 (163) 65% tested positive for cocaine.

In 2023, (240) 50% tested positive for cocaine.

In 2024, (120) 48% tested positive for cocaine and fentanyl.

In 2024, (71) 28% tested positive for amphetamines.

In 2023, (111) 23% tested positive for amphetamines.

According to New Orleans Coroner, Dr. Dwight McKenna, “For the first time in four years, we are seeing a significant decline in overdose deaths in New Orleans, signaling that our collective efforts may be making a community impact. However, the high percentage of fentanyl-related cases and the rising presence of cocaine in toxicology results show that we cannot become complacent. We must remain committed to expanding education initiatives, increasing access to treatment and continuing to educate the public on the dangers of drug use.”